Ep 49: Coaching Below the Surface: Coaching Across Differences, Building Safety, and Preparing for the Future of Work

In this episode, we feature a special webinar recording where LaTonya Wilkins, award-winning executive coach and author, introduces Coaching Below the Surface, an ICF-approved coach training program launching in July 2025. This initiative outlines a fresh approach to coaching, emphasizing connection across differences and creating psychological safety in coaching relationships.In Episode 49, we dive into a comprehensive introduction of Coaching Below the Surface, a groundbreaking ICF-approved coach training program designed to help coaches navigate the complexities of our VUCA (Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, Ambiguous) world. LaTonya explores how this program prepares coaches to work effectively across differences, focusing on the importance of psychological safety for both coaches and clients. The presentation also introduces the REAL leadership model (Relatable, Equitable, Aware, and Loyal) and how this unique framework addresses the diverse needs of today's coaching landscape.Key Insights:Connecting Across Differences: The program highlights the need for coaches to connect with clients across diverse perspectives and challenges, addressing the complexity of the VUCA world.Psychological Safety: Coaches must create "dual psychological safety"—ensuring safety for both themselves and their clients—to foster authentic, effective coaching interactions.KPE (Knowledge, Perspectives, and Experiences): The program introduces KPE as the foundation for understanding the unique differences that coaches and clients bring to the relationship.The REAL Model: This coaching approach is rooted in the REAL model, which stands for Relatable, Equitable, Aware, and Loyal, helping coaches navigate diverse client needs.Understanding Gen Z: Gen Z’s unique challenges are highlighted as a key focus, positioning them as one of the top leadership issues in today’s coaching landscape.Cohort-Based Learning: Participants will engage in a cohort-based environment, fostering psychological safety, belonging, and "coaching joy."Outcomes for Coaches: By joining the program, participants can expect tangible outcomes: more clients, improved ratings, and an overall improvement in their coaching practice.The Importance of Coaching Now: The program underscores that this is a pivotal time for coaches to make a significant impact in today’s complex workplace.To learn more about the Coaching Below the Surface program, click here.0:00 - Introduction and Welcome to the Webinar2:15 - Overview of Leading Below the Surface Philosophy4:30 - Understanding the VUCA World (Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, Ambiguity)7:45 - Defining Wicked Problems in Today's Leadership Landscape10:20 - How Traditional Coaching Falls Short in Complex Environments13:40 - Introduction to Coaching Below the Surface Framework16:55 - Key Preparation Strategies for Effective Coaching20:10 - The Power of Listening Beyond Words23:35 - Navigating Difficult Conversations with Empathy27:50 - Practical Coaching Tools for VUCA Environments32:15 - Case Studies: Successful Below the Surface Coaching36:40 - Q&A Session with Webinar Participants41:05 - Information About the ICF-Accredited Coach Training Program44:30 - Next Steps and How to Connect Further47:15 - Closing Remarks and Thank YouConnect with us: Email us at ⁠[email protected]⁠Learn more about ⁠Change Coaches⁠ (changecoaches.io)Learn more about Coaching Below the Surface (https://changecoaches.io/coaching-below-the-surface/)Follow LaTonya on ⁠LinkedIn⁠ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/latonyawilkins/)Follow Change Coaches on ⁠LinkedIn⁠ (https://www.linkedin.com/company/82310593)For More on the Book ⁠Leading Below the Surface (leadingbelowthesurface.com)And, if you loved this episode, please rate and share it!